Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has welcomed the award of £1.07bn in government funding to the city-region – marking a significant step towards delivering the Bee Network.
The funding allocated to Greater Manchester was announced ahead of this week’s Comprehensive Spending Review and represents the most awarded to any city-region in the country and around 90% of the total £1.19bn bid for.
It will be used to support the delivery of a London-style, fully integrated transport system joining together buses, trams, cycling and walking by 2024, and rail by 2030. This includes investment in quality bus transit corridors, improving transport infrastructure and connectivity for towns and high streets in the region. It will also pave the way for the next generation of Metrolink, including an expansion of the network and the introduction of tram-train services, as well as preparing for HS2.
The funding marks a significant step in our journey and we will now work with our partners to prioritise and mobilise delivery over the next five years.
The next critical step is to secure the further funding needed through the Bus Services Improvement Plan to help us fully realise the Bee Network vision – including affordable bus fares, more reliable and frequent bus services, and an electrified fleet which will support and encourage more people to choose public transport and active travel.
People living and working in Greater Manchester are still being encouraged to share their thoughts on the region’s ambitious plans to level up transport through the Destination: Bee Network Conversation which is taking place now.
